Defect Luminescence Based Persistent Phosphors—From Controlled Synthesis to Bioapplications

Abstract Persistent luminescence is an optical phenomenon where solid phosphors can store photoenergy in defects and release the energy by luminescence after stopping excitation. Due to the intriguing optical characteristics, the defect luminescence based persistent phosphors have attracted enormous attention in recent decades, especially in biomedical fields such as biosensing and bioimaging. Persistent luminescence nanoparticles (PLNPs) can effectively avoid the autofluorescence interference from complex samples or tissues, leading to significantly improved sensitivity in biological analysis. In this review, we summarized the methods to control the optical performance of PLNPs from the perspectives of controlled synthesis and defect regulation, and emphasized the close relationship between their optical performance and applications. We further provided a summary about a series of PLNPs nanoprobes designed by our group for biosensing and bioimaging. Our efforts, summarized in this review, will not only open a window for manipulating luminescence in PLNPs, but also further promote the application of PLNPs in biomedicine. What is the most favorite and original chemistry developed in your research group? Synthesis and bioapplications of persistent phosphors. How do you get into this specific field? Could you please share some experiences with our readers? I got into chemistry related to biomedicine during my graduate student period. The research situation of luminescent nanomaterials in China has a strong effect on me, inspiring me to pursuit new luminescent nanomaterials and their applications. We need have interest and concentrate on our research with passion. We are encouraged to work hard. What is the most important personality for scientific research? Curiosity and hard‐working. What are your hobbies? What's your favorite book(s)? Shopping and reading books. My favorite books are novels, such as “The Three‐Body Problem”. How do you keep balance between research and family? I have two boys and it takes me much time to take care of them. I need to elevate my work efficiency and work hard. I also buy household service to save time. Who influences you mostly in your life? My father. He loves reading and writing. I know one need to have passion on something under my father's influence.